WOODBRIDGE — A fox captured in the Colonia section of Woodbridge has tested positive for rabies.
The Woodbridge Township Department of Health & Human Services has been notified of a positive case of rabies in a fox captured on Nov. 19 in the vicinity of Claremont Avenue School in Colonia.
An investigation by the Woodbridge Township Animal Control Division determined that the fox had collapsed and was near death when recovered by Animal Control officers.
The animal carcass was transported to the New Jersey State Department of Health (DOH) forensic laboratory for testing.
The DOH advised Woodbridge Animal Control on Nov. 23 that the fox had tested positive for rabies.
Dennis Green, Woodbridge director of health, recommended residents should contact the Department of Health if they believe they were in contact with the fox.
He also said residents should avoid contact with stray or wild animals; make sure garbage and recycling containers are closed tightly; make sure pets are current with their rabies vaccine; refrain from feeding pets outside; and seek medical attention immediately if bitten by an animal.
For more information, contact the Woodbridge Township Health Department at 732-855-0600, ext. 5027 or visit the New Jersey Department of Health web page at www.state.nj.us/health.